New faces, new hope for Cricket Kenya as Gohil and Omamo take charge

Cricket Kenya began a fresh chapter on Sunday after businessman Bhavesh Gohil and lawyer Perlyne Omamo were chosen to lead the federation during elections held at Ruaraka Sports Club.

The voting process started at about 1:00 pm after several court cases earlier in the week had placed the elections in doubt.

However, legal challenges were dismissed, allowing members to proceed with the polls as planned.

In the race for chairperson, Gohil won comfortably with 38 votes. Former Kenya captain Tom Tikolo finished second with 18 votes, while one ballot was rejected.

Gohil is expected to focus on reforms, including improving finances, supporting players and expanding cricket development across counties.

Omamo, a former captain of the women’s national side, was elected vice chairperson without opposition after her rival was ruled ineligible to stand.

Other winners included Alfred Njuguna Njoroge, who became treasurer after securing 40 votes, and Damian Omonywa, who won the Director of County Associations seat with 37 votes.

In a closely fought contest, Charity Wambui defeated Sarah Kemunto Mayaka by 31 votes to 24 to become Director of Women’s Cricket.

A total of 57 delegates from 19 county associations took part in the elections. Their votes may prove decisive in shaping the future of the sport.

Cricket Kenya has faced years of disputes and governance concerns. The elections were also important because the International Cricket Council had raised concerns over Kenya’s compliance with membership rules.

Former chief executive Ronald Bukusi had previously warned that delaying the polls could lead to serious consequences.

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